How does the application work at a high level, what rights does the family member receive, how long does the status last, and how can it become independent or longer-term where officially stated?
The family member applies for the pass type matching the relationship: Dependant's Pass for a legally married spouse or unmarried children under 21 (including legally adopted); Long-Term Visit Pass for a common-law spouse, unmarried handicapped children aged 21 and above, or unmarried step-children under 21. An assessment of eligibility for the Dependant's Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass can be requested. The official source does not state the pass duration, the family member's rights or any path to independent or longer-term status.
See recorded sources
Limits of the record- The page does not state the pass duration, the family member's rights (e.g. work) or any path to independent or longer-term status.